Industry Cluster Interview Questions
Summary of Interview Responses by Cluster
Page 1 of 36
1. Company Information:
County
# of Interviews
Centre
15
Lycoming
15
Clinton
30
Total
60
County
Industry
# of Interviews and %
Healthcare
2 or 13%
Lumber/Wood
Products
3 or 20%
Centre
Manufacturing
10 or 67%
Healthcare
1 or 7%
Lumber/Wood
Products
2 or 13%
Lycoming
Manufacturing
12 or 80%
Healthcare
4 or 13%
Lumber/Wood
Products
8 or 27%
Clinton
Manufacturing
18 or 60%
Industry
Number
% Percentage of
Total
Healthcare
7
12%
Lumber/Wood
Products
13
22%
Diversified
Manufacturing
40
66%
Total
60
100%
2. Contact Information:
3. General Information:
4. Year Established:
Lumber/Wood
Products
Year
Established
# of
Companies
1800's
0
1900-1949
0
1950-1999
13
2000-present
0
Total
13
Diversified
Manufacturing
Year
Established
# of
Companies
1800's
4
1900-1949
5
1950-1999
30
2000-present
1
Total
40
5. # employees: 9,315 full-time 1,471 part-time
Healthcare
Year
Established
# of
Companies
1800's
1
1900-1949
2
1950-1999
4
2000-present
0
Total
7
Industry Cluster Interview Questions
Summary of Interview Responses by Cluster
Page 2 of 36
Averages out to approximately 155 full time employees and 24 part time employees per company
interviewed.
Industry
Cluster
Full
Time
Part
Time
Healthcare
3,564
1,212
Lumber/Wood
Products
436
16
Manufacturing
5,315
243
Total
9,315
1,471
6. Major SIC or NAICS code: See attachment B for SIC/NAICS listing.
7. Does your company Export? Yes or No
Import? Yes or No
Healthcare
Export
Number
Percentage
%
Yes
0
0%
No
7
100%
Total
7
100%
Lumber/Wood Products
Export
Number
Percentage
%
Yes
6
46%
No
7
54%
Total
13
100%
Diversified Manufacturing
Export
Number
Percentage
%
Yes
21
53%
No
19
47%
Total
40
100%
Healthcare
Import
Number
Percentage
%
Yes
0
0%
No
7
100%
Total
7
100%
Lumber/Wood Products
Import
Number
Percentage
%
Yes
2
15%
No
11
85%
Total
13
100%
Diversified Manufacturing
Import
Number
Percentage
%
Yes
13
32%
No
27
68%
Total
40
100%
Industry Cluster Interview Questions
Summary of Interview Responses by Cluster
Page 3 of 36
8. Minority Owned: Yes or No
Woman Owned: Yes or No
Healthcare
Minority
Owned
Number
Percentage
%
Yes
0
0%
No
7
100%
Total
7
100%
Lumber/Wood Products
Minority
Owned
Number
Percentage
%
Yes
0
0%
No
13
100%
Total
13
100%
Diversified Manufacturing
Minority
Owned
Number
Percentage
%
Yes
2
5%
No
38
95%
Total
40
100%
Healthcare
Woman
Owned
Number
Percentage
%
Yes
0
0%
No
7
100%
Total
7
100%
Lumber/Wood Products
Woman
Owned
Number
Percentage
%
Yes
1
8%
No
12
92%
Total
13
100%
Diversified Manufacturing
Woman
Owned
Number
Percentage
%
Yes
2
5%
No
38
95%
Total
40
100%
9. Government Sales: Prime? Yes or No
Subcontract? Yes or No
Healthcare
Gov't
Sales
Prime
Number
Percentage
%
Yes
0
0%
No
7
100%
Total
7
100%
Lumber/Wood Products
Gov't
Sales
Prime
Number
Percentage
%
Yes
2
15%
No
11
85%
Total
13
100%
Diversified Manufacturing
Gov't
Sales
Prime
Number
Percentage
%
Yes
8
20%
No
32
80%
Total
40
100%
Healthcare
Gov't
Sales
Sub
Number
Percentage
%
Yes
1
14%
No
6
86%
Total
7
100%
Lumber/Wood Products
Gov't
Sales
Sub
Number
Percentage
%
Yes
2
15%
No
11
85%
Total
13
100%
Diversified Manufacturing
Gov't
Sales
Sub
Number
Percentage
%
Yes
15
37%
No
25
63%
Total
40
100%
Industry Cluster Interview Questions
Summary of Interview Responses by Cluster
Page 4 of 36
10. What part of your firm(s) is/are located in the region?
Healthcare
Number (out of 7) Percentage
Manufacturing
0
0%
Headquarters
5
71%
Research & Development
0
0%
Other
3
43%
Lumber/Wood Products
Number (out of 13) Percentage
Manufacturing
11
85%
Headquarters
12
92%
Research & Development
2
15%
Other
0
0%
Diversified Manufacturing
Number (out of 40) Percentage
Manufacturing
38
95%
Headquarters
25
63%
Research & Development
18
45%
Other
2
5%
**More than 1 answer could be selected for this question.
Industry Cluster Interview Questions
Summary of Interview Responses by Cluster
Page 5 of 36
Industry Cluster Information:
11. Industry clusters are comprised of companies that co-locate in close proximity because of shared
linkages such as similar technologies, related products, shared customers, buyer-supplier
relationships or a common labor pool, that present the opportunity for competitive advantage. You
have been selected to participate in this interview because a partnership of regional workforce,
economic development, and educational entities have classified your industry as part of four (4)
major industry clusters in Central Pennsylvania. Given this definition:
a.) Were you aware that your industry might be classified as a cluster?
Healthcare
Pre-Survey
Industry Cluster
Question
Number
% Percentage
of Total
No
5
71%
Yes
2
29%
Maybe
0
0%
Total
7
100%
Lumber/Wood Products
Pre-Survey
Industry Cluster
Question
Number
% Percentage
of Total
No
7
54%
Yes
6
46%
Maybe
0
0%
Total
13
100%
Diversified Manufacturing
Pre-Survey
Industry Cluster
Question
Number
% Percentage
of Total
No
30
75%
Yes
9
23%
Maybe
1
2%
Total
40
100%
Healthcare
Post-Survey
Industry Cluster
Question
Number
% Percentage
of Total
Yes
4
57%
No
3
43%
Maybe
0
Not sure
0
Total
7
100%
Lumber/Wood Products
Post-Survey
Industry Cluster
Question
Number
% Percentage
of Total
Yes
8
61%
No
4
31%
Maybe
1
8%
Not sure
0
0%
Total
13
100%
Diversified Manufacturing
Post-Survey
Industry Cluster
Question
Number
% Percentage
of Total
Yes
22
55%
No
13
33%
Maybe
3
7%
Not sure
2
5%
Total
40
100%
Industry Cluster Interview Questions
Summary of Interview Responses by Cluster
Page 6 of 36
Social Capital:
12. Name up to three individuals or organizations with which you have COLLABORATED in the recent
past (for example, to bid on contracts together, attend trade show together, help fill an order, share
equipment or services, or participate in an industry education partnership), and the type of
cooperation. Interviewer Note: Collaboration is defined as being beneficial to both parties.
Healthcare
(top answers)
Category
Collaboration
Competitors (7 responses)
Share equipment
Share information
Share services
Industry Related
Organizations (3 responses)
Share information
Lumber/Wood Products
(top answers)
Category
Collaboration
Competitors (7responses)
Bid on projects together
Share equipment
Share business resources
None (5 responses)
Diversified Manufacturing
(top answers)
Category
Collaboration
None (16 responses)
Competitors (10 responses)
Share business resources
Share ideas
Job responsibilities
Joint bidding
Industry Related
Organizations (4 responses)
Share business resources
Share information
13. Name up to three individuals or organizations (this may be, for example, a technical school,
competitor, customer, supplier, or consultant) that have helped you recently in some way. (such as
gave advice, shared information, or loaned equipment) and form of help (advice, production, loan).
Interviewer Note: Please have them indicate whether it was fee based or free.
Healthcare
Organizations That Have Helped You
Category
# of responses
% Percentage
Local College
5
41%
None
2
17%
Local Organization
2
17%
Company
2
17%
Government
1
8%
Total
12
100%
Industry Cluster Interview Questions
Summary of Interview Responses by Cluster
Page 7 of 36
Fee Based or Free
# Number
% Percentage
Fee based
1
8%
Free
8
67%
N/A
2
17%
Both
1
8%
Total
12
100%
Lumber/Wood Products
Organizations That Have Helped You
Category
# of responses
% Percentage
None
5
25%
Local Company
5
25%
Local Organization
4
20%
Local Competitor
3
15%
Company
1
5%
College
1
5%
Local College
1
5%
Total
20
100%
Fee Based or Free
# Number
% Percentage
Fee based
10
50%
Free
4
20%
N/A
5
25%
Both
1
5%
Total
20
100%
Diversified Manufacturing
Organizations That Have Helped You
Category
# of responses
% Percentage
Local School
4
6%
None
11
18%
Local College
10
17%
Local Company
10
17%
Company
11
18%
Customers
1
2%
Local Organizations
7
12%
Local Competitors
3
5%
Economic
Development
2
3%
Competitors
1
2%
Total
60
100%
Fee Based or Free
# Number
% Percentage
Fee based
22
37%
Free
17
28%
N/A
11
18%
Both
10
17%
Total
60
100%
Industry Cluster Interview Questions
Summary of Interview Responses by Cluster
Page 8 of 36
14. Name up to three organizations and their locations, which YOU have recently helped out in some
way (such as gave advice, shared information, or loaned equipment) and form of help (advice,
production, loan).
Healthcare
Organizations YOU have Recently Helped
Category
# of responses
% Percentage
None
2
15%
Local Competitor
7
54%
Competitor
1
8%
Local Organization
1
8%
Local College
2
15%
Total
13
100%
Form of Help
Share information and equipment
Teach classes
Share information and equipment resources
Share supplies
Lumber/Wood Products
Organizations YOU have Recently Helped
Category
# of responses
% Percentage
Competitors
5
36%
Customers
1
7%
Local Companies
3
21%
None
5
36%
Total
14
100%
Form of Help
Loan Equipment and resources
Share info with them
Offered strategic marketing ideas, contacts
Help other companies in the area by helping to buy lumber
Assist customers with various advice, etc.
Help with production
Industry Cluster Interview Questions
Summary of Interview Responses by Cluster
Page 9 of 36
Diversified Manufacturing
Organizations YOU have Recently Helped
Category
# of responses
% Percentage
Customers
2
4%
Local Schools
3
6%
Local Colleges
4
8%
None
10
19%
N/A
4
8%
Local Companies
2
4%
Local Competitors
11
20%
Competitors
4
8%
Local Organizations
8
15%
Themselves
3
6%
State Government
1
2%
Total
52
100
Form of Help
Share technical advice with schools
Share equipment and advice
Loan equipment
Serve on boards of local organizations
Share space
Send free parts to see if company can use them
15. Who do you consider to be leaders or innovators in your industry? (Probe for at least 3.)
Healthcare
Leaders Or Innovators In Your Industry
Category
# of responses
% Percentage
Local Competitors
10
72%
Competitors
2
14%
Themselves
2
14%
Total
14
100%
Lumber/Wood Products
Leaders Or Innovators In Your Industry
Category
# of responses
% Percentage
Local Competitors
9
38%
Competitors
10
42%
Themselves
2
8%
Sister Company
1
4%
None
2
8%
Total
24
100%
Diversified Manufacturing
Leaders Or Innovators In Your Industry
Category
# of responses
% Percentage
Local Competitors
7
9%
Competitors
50
61%
Themselves
23
28%
Industry Cluster Interview Questions
Summary of Interview Responses by Cluster
Page 10 of 36
Industry Related
Organization
1
1%
Not Sure
1
1%
Total
82
100%
16. What are the most important business groups, affiliations, and/or professional organizations that
your company belongs to? Why are they important to you? (Probe for at least 3)
Healthcare
Business Groups/
Affiliations
Why?
Industry Related
Organizations (11 responses)
Legislative Assistance
Provide updates on rules
and regulations
Provide education
Local Economic
Development Organizations
(3 responses)
Keep local involvement
Part of the community
Lumber/Wood Products
Business Groups/
Affiliations
Why?
Industry related organizations
(21 responses)
Political clout; Legislative
assistance
Familiar with Industry
Offer advice
Provide Information on the
industry
Networking
Local Economic
Development Organizations
(2 responses)
Provide guidance
Industry Cluster Interview Questions
Summary of Interview Responses by Cluster
Page 11 of 36
Diversified Manufacturing
Business Groups/
Affiliations
Why?
Industry Related
Organizations (60 responses)
Offer communication on
updates in the
industry/industry trends
Provide legislative and
political support
They are the voices of the
industry
Provide a unified voice on
legislative issues
Local Economic
Development Organizations
(15 responses)
Offer business
development assistance
Provide community
support
Local involvement in the
community
17. What are the most important advisory committees and/or boards that your company is involved in?
Healthcare
Advisory Committee/Boards
Rank
Type
1
Industry Related Organizations (7 responses)
2
None or N/A (6 responses)
Lumber/Wood Products
Advisory Committee/Boards
Rank
Type
1
Industry Related Organizations (5 responses)
2
Local Economic Development Organizations
(3 responses)
Diversified Manufacturing
Advisory Committee/Boards
Rank
Type
1
Industry Related Organization (19 responses)
2
None, N/A, Not sure (14 responses)
Industry Cluster Interview Questions
Summary of Interview Responses by Cluster
Page 12 of 36
18. Do you think it would be important for your company to participate in more local/regional
networking opportunities? If yes, please describe.
Healthcare
Regional
Networking
Opportunities
Number
% Percentage
of Total
No
3
43%
Yes
4
57%
Maybe
0
Not sure
0
No comment
0
Total
7
100%
Lumber/Wood Products
Regional
Networking
Opportunities
Number
% Percentage
of Total
No
7
54%
Yes
6
46%
Maybe
0
Not sure
0
No comment
0
Total
13
100%
Diversified Manufacturing
Regional
Networking
Opportunities
Number
% Percentage
of Total
No
16
40%
Yes
14
35%
Maybe
4
10%
Not sure
3
7%
No comment
3
7%
Total
40
100%
Marketing & Sales:
19. What are your annual sales?
Healthcare
Annual Sales
Number
% Percentage of
Total
Confidential
3
43%
< $250,000
0
$250,000-$500,000
0
$500,001-$999,999
0
$1 MM-$5 MM
0
$5.1 MM- $10 MM
1
14%
$10.1 MM-$15 MM
0
Industry Cluster Interview Questions
Summary of Interview Responses by Cluster
Page 13 of 36
> $15 MM
3
43%
Total
7
100%
Lumber/Wood Products
Annual Sales
Number
% Percentage of
Total
Confidential
1
8%
< $250,000
0
$250,000-$500,000
1
8%
$500,001-$999,999
5
38%
$1 MM-$5 MM
3
23%
$5.1 MM- $10 MM
2
15%
$10.1 MM-$15 MM
0
> $15 MM
1
8%
Total
13
100
Diversified Manufacturing
Annual Sales
Number
% Percentage of
Total
Confidential
5
12%
< $250,000
1
3%
$250,000-$500,000
2
5%
$500,001-$999,999
2
5%
$1 MM-$5 MM
12
30%
$5.1 MM- $10 MM
3
7%
$10.1 MM-$15 MM
1
3%
> $15 MM
14
35%
Total
40
100%
20. Do you expect your sales to decline, grow, or remain status quo over the next 12 months?
Healthcare
Sales (over 12 months)
Number
% Percentage of
Total
Growth
3
43%
Status Quo/No Growth
4
57%
Decline
0
0%
Total
7
100%
Lumber/Wood Products
Sales (over 12 months)
Number
% Percentage of
Total
Growth
9
69%
Status Quo/No Growth
4
31%
Decline
0
0%
Total
13
100%
Industry Cluster Interview Questions
Summary of Interview Responses by Cluster
Page 14 of 36
Diversified Manufacturing
Sales (over 12 months)
Number
% Percentage of
Total
Growth
29
72%
Status Quo/No Growth
10
25%
Decline
1
3%
Total
40
100%
21. Do you have an Internet connection? If yes, which option best describes your connection?
Healthcare
Internet Connection Number
% Percentage
of Total
High Speed (DSL,
Cable, Wireless)
2
29%
T1 or higher
4
57%
Dial Up
1
14%
None
0
0%
Total
7
100%
Lumber/Wood Products
Internet Connection Number
% Percentage
of Total
High Speed (DSL,
Cable, Wireless)
8
62%
T1 or higher
1
8%
Dial Up
2
15%
None
2
15%
Total
13
100%
Diversified Manufacturing
Internet Connection Number
% Percentage
of Total
High Speed (DSL,
Cable, Wireless)
24
60%
T1 or higher
14
35%
Dial Up
2
5%
None
0
0%
Total
40
100%
22. What is your current level of Internet connectivity?
Healthcare
Number
% Percentage of
Total
Adequate/appropriate
5
71%
Need more
2
29%
N/A
0
0%
Total
7
100%
Industry Cluster Interview Questions
Summary of Interview Responses by Cluster
Page 15 of 36
Lumber/Wood Products
Number
% Percentage of
Total
Adequate/appropriate
10
77%
Need more
1
8%
N/A
2
15%
Total
13
100%
Diversified Manufacturing
Number
% Percentage of
Total
Adequate/appropriate
34
85%
Need more
6
15%
N/A
0
0%
Total
40
100%
*One company (Avery Polymers, Manufacturing) that indicated they had T1 or higher, feels they need more
broadband.
**Out of 5 companies with dial-up, 3 companies (1 lumber, 1 healthcare, and 1 manufacturing) need more and
2 (1 lumber and 1 manufacturing) think it's adequate
***Among those with high-speed access, only 5 (all manufacturing) felt they needed more.
23. Do you know of any other connection options that may be available in your area with comparable or
better service than your present provider?
Healthcare
Number
Percentage
No
4
57%
3
43%
No Comment
0
0%
Total
7
100%
Lumber/Wood Products
Number
Percentage
No
9
69%
3
23%
No Comment
1
8%
Total
13
100%
Diversified Manufacturing
Number
Percentage
No
31
78%
9
22%
No Comment
0
0%
Total
40
100%
Industry Cluster Interview Questions
Summary of Interview Responses by Cluster
Page 16 of 36
24. Did the availability of broadband factor into your company's decision to locate/expand into this area
or will it be a factor when you decide to expand in the future?
Healthcare
Number
Percentage
No
5
71%
N/A
0
0%
2
29%
7
100%
Lumber/Wood Products
Number
Percentage
No
8
62%
N/A
5
38%
0
0%
13
100%
Diversified Manufacturing
Number
Percentage
No
30
75
N/A
7
17
3
8
40
100%
25. Do you conduct any business online? If yes, which form of e-commerce do you use?
Healthcare
Online Business
Number
(out of 7)
%
Percentage
Electronic correspondence (Email)
5
71%
Website/online directories
4
57%
Online transactional based selling
0
0%
Online transactional based purchasing
1
14%
Other
2
29%
None
1
14%
Online banking
3
43%
N/A
1
14%
Industry Cluster Interview Questions
Summary of Interview Responses by Cluster
Page 17 of 36
Lumber/Wood Products
Online Business
Number
(out of 13)
%
Percentage
Electronic correspondence (Email)
9
69%
Website/online directories
7
54%
Online transactional based selling
4
31%
Online transactional based purchasing
1
8%
Other
1
8%
None
2
15%
Online banking
0
0%
N/A
2
15%
Diversified Manufacturing
Online Business
Number
(out of 40)
%
Percentage
Electronic correspondence (Email)
37
93%
Website/online directories
30
75%
Online transactional based selling
13
33%
Online transactional based purchasing
11
28%
Other
4
10%
None
3
8%
Online banking
2
5%
N/A
0
0%
26. What other channels do you use to market your product/services?
Healthcare
Other Marketing
Channels
Number
(out of 7)
%
Percentage
Trade shows
1
14%
Direct sales
1
14%
Trade magazines
2
29%
Other*
6
86%
Direct mail
2
29%
Radio
4
57%
Television
3
43%
*Other includes: newspaper, billboards, and word of mouth
Lumber/Wood Products
Other Marketing
Channels
Number
(out of 13)
%
Percentage
Trade shows
7
54%
Direct sales
3
23%
Trade magazines
7
54%
Other*
4
31%
Direct mail
3
23%
Radio
3
23%
Television
1
8%
*Other includes: newspapers and word of mouth.
Industry Cluster Interview Questions
Summary of Interview Responses by Cluster
Page 18 of 36
Diversified Manufacturing
Other Marketing
Channels
Number
(out of 40)
%
Percentage
Trade shows
23
58%
Direct sales
26
65%
Trade magazines
13
33%
Other
11
28%
Direct mail
10
25%
Radio
4
10%
Television
2
5%
*Other includes: directories, internet, word of mouth, newspapers, trade catalogs, distributors, and repeat customers
27. Specifically, who are the most important customers of this firm's products/services?
(More than one answer can be given for this question.)
Healthcare
Customers
Products
Location
(City, State)
Why do they buy from
you? (Ranked 1-3)
Local residents Health services Local
#1 Quality of care (2x)
#2 Service (1x) tie
#2 Location (1x) tie
Lumber/Wood Products
Customers
Products
Location
(City, State)
(Ranked 1-3)
(out of 34 responses)
Why do they buy from
you? (Ranked 1-3)
(out of 34 responses)
various
Wood furniture
(11x)
#1 Pennsylvania (17 responses)
#1 Price/cost ( 21
responses)
Wood/lumber
(9x)
#2 Not sure (5 responses)
#2 Quality/Craftsmanship
(20 responses)
#3 New York (4 responses)
#3 Location (7x)
Diversified Manufacturing
Customers
Products
Location
(City, State)
(Ranked 1-3)
Why do they buy from
you? (Ranked 1-5)
various
various
#1 Pennsylvania (34 responses)
#1 Quality (54 responses)
#2 New York (6 responses)
#2 Price (42 responses)
#3 Maryland (5 responses)
#3 Service (18 responses)
Industry Cluster Interview Questions
Summary of Interview Responses by Cluster
Page 19 of 36
**Most of the companies surveyed had multiple answers for this question. The reason the customer buys from them
was counted to determine the ranking. (example: "quality" was mentioned a total of 20 times for the reason their
customers buy from them.)
28. How does local demand for your products/services within Central Pennsylvania compare to the
demand for your products/services overall?
Healthcare
Local Demand
Number
% Percentage
of Total
About the same
1
14%
N/A
4
57%
Growing slower
0
0%
Growing more rapidly
2
29%
Total
7
100%
Lumber/Wood Products
Local Demand
Number
% Percentage
of Total
About the same
4
31%
N/A
0
0%
Growing slower
4
31%
Growing more rapidly
5
38%
Total
13
100%
Diversified Manufacturing
Local Demand
Number
% Percentage
of Total
About the same
13
33%
N/A
13
33%
Growing slower
11
27%
Growing more rapidly
3
7%
Total
40
100%
29. Specifically, who are the most important suppliers for your firm?
Healthcare
(out of 19 responses)
Suppliers
Suppliers
Products
Location
(City, State)
Why do you buy from
them?
Various
Hospital and office
supplies
1- PA (9 responses)
1- Price/cost (13 responses)
Various
Various
2- Quality (8 responses)
3- Service/availability (6
responses)
Industry Cluster Interview Questions
Summary of Interview Responses by Cluster
Page 20 of 36
Lumber/Wood Products
(out of 27 responses)
Suppliers
Suppliers
Products
Location
(City, State)
Why do you buy from
them?
Various
Lumber/wood/timber
(11 responses)
1- PA (17 responses)
1- Price/cost (14 responses)
Various
Various
2- Quality (11 responses)
3- Service (4 responses)
3- Location (4 responses)
Diversified Manufacturing
(Out of 98 responses)
Suppliers
Suppliers
Products
Location
(City, State)
Why do you buy from
them?
Various
Steel (12 responses)
1- PA (43 responses)
1- Price/cost (48 responses)
various
2- NY (11 responses)
2- Quality (31 responses)
3- Service (19 responses)
**Most of the companies surveyed had multiple answers for this question. The reason they buy from a supplier was
counted to determine the ranking. (example: "price/cost" was mentioned a total of 48 times for the reason they buy
from a supplier.)
30. Is your firm purchasing significant services, products, and/or raw materials from outside of Central
Pennsylvania? If so, what prevents them from being purchased in Central Pennsylvania?
Healthcare
Purchasing Outside PA?
Number
(out of 7)
Percentage
%
Lack of suppliers
5
71%
N/A
2
29%
Other
0
0%
High cost
0
0%
Established relationships with
current suppliers
0
0%
Low quality
0
0%
Lumber/Wood Products
Purchasing Outside PA?
Number
(out of 13)
Percentage
%
Lack of suppliers
4
31%
N/A
8
62%
Other
2
15%
High cost
0
0%
Established relationships with
0
0%
Industry Cluster Interview Questions
Summary of Interview Responses by Cluster
Page 21 of 36
current suppliers
Low quality
0
0%
Diversified Manufacturing
Purchasing Outside PA?
Number
(out of 40)
Percentage
%
Lack of suppliers
32
80%
N/A
6
15%
Other
3
8%
High cost
3
8%
Established relationships with
current suppliers
2
5%
Low quality
1
3%
*Of the 5 companies that answered "Other", 2 companies indicated that they thought their company was
"so specialized" and a "niche market."
**8 companies selected more than 1 answer to this question.
*** 16 companies answered N/A to this question. Those companies were counted as not purchasing
significant services, products, raw materials from outside of Central PA.
31. Do you think this region could benefit from the development of a regional brand or identity?
Healthcare
Number
% Percentage
of Total
7
100%
No
0
Not Sure
0
Maybe
0
No Comment
0
Total
7
100%
Lumber/Wood Products
Number
% Percentage
of Total
10
77%
No
0
Not Sure
1
8%
Maybe
2
15%
No Comment
0
Total
13
100%
Diversified Manufacturing
Number
% Percentage
of Total
20
50%
No
10
25%
Not Sure
7
18%
Maybe
2
5%
No Comment
1
2%
Total
40
100%
Industry Cluster Interview Questions
Summary of Interview Responses by Cluster
Page 22 of 36
Comments:
"Susquehanna Valley? Already have one."
"Yes. Only as it relates to Penn State University."
"This region has a local brand "Happy Valley" and Penn State. It would be hard to surpass either."
"Yes, promoting PA Hardwoods."
32. Currently, the 10-County region is referred to by some groups as Pennsylvania's Heartland. Please
indicate how accurate a description of the10-County region you think this is and, secondly, how
enticing this description is for those who hear it.
Healthcare
"Pennsylvania's Heartland"
Accuracy
Number % Percentage
of Total
Very accurate
1
14%
Somewhat accurate
3
43%
Not very accurate
2
29%
Not at all accurate
1
14%
No opinion
0
0%
Total
7
100%
Lumber/Wood Products
"Pennsylvania's Heartland"
Accuracy
Number % Percentage
of Total
Very accurate
1
8%
Somewhat accurate
9
69%
Not very accurate
2
15%
Not at all accurate
0
0%
No opinion
1
8%
Total
13
100%
Diversified Manufacturing
"Pennsylvania's Heartland"
Accuracy
Number % Percentage
of Total
Very accurate
3
8%
Somewhat accurate
23
57%
Not very accurate
8
20%
Not at all accurate
5
12%
No opinion
1
3%
Total
40
100%
Healthcare
"Pennsylvania's Heartland"
Enticement
Number % Percentage
of Total
Very enticing description
1
14%
Somewhat enticing description
2
29%
Not very enticing description
3
43%
Not at all enticing description
1
14%
No opinion
0
0%
Total
7
100%
Industry Cluster Interview Questions
Summary of Interview Responses by Cluster
Page 23 of 36
Lumber/Wood Products
"Pennsylvania's Heartland"
Enticement
Number % Percentage
of Total
Very enticing description
0
0%
Somewhat enticing description
9
69%
Not very enticing description
3
23%
Not at all enticing description
0
0%
No opinion
1
8%
Total
13
100%
Diversified Manufacturing
"Pennsylvania's Heartland"
Enticement
Number % Percentage
of Total
Very enticing description
1
3%
Somewhat enticing description
21
52%
Not very enticing description
10
25%
Not at all enticing description
7
17%
No opinion
1
3%
Total
40
100%
33. If properly and fully developed, could you see referring to this region as Pennsylvania's Heartland in
your company's marketing efforts?
Healthcare
"Pennsylvania's Heartland"
Usage
Number % Percentage
of Total
Yes
4
57%
Maybe
0
0%
No
3
43%
Total
7
100%
Lumber/Wood Products
"Pennsylvania's Heartland"
Usage
Number % Percentage
of Total
Yes
5
38%
Maybe
3
24%
No
5
38%
Total
13
100%
Diversified Manufacturing
"Pennsylvania's Heartland"
Usage
Number % Percentage
of Total
Yes
12
30%
Maybe
5
13%
No
23
57%
Total
40
100%
Some of the comments from those surveyed include:
"Yes. His label says produced in PA's Heartland."
"Thinks of Harrisburg/Lancaster. Likes "Big Woods Country" moniker"
Industry Cluster Interview Questions
Summary of Interview Responses by Cluster
Page 24 of 36
"No, think of the Midwest"
"Yes, probably if you capture an image"
"no, name isn't high tech enough, think of amish rather than technology"
"no. reminds me of Iowa and cornfields. Boring. Doesn't reflect high tech image"
"not really, could be convinced if showed results"
"if was a description of the Heartland, why is the heartland good? Heartland in middle of nowhere?"
"no. b/c not technical enough. Thinks agricultural."
Business Climate:
34. Why did you locate to this area? Please rank up to your top 3 options. 1 being the most important 3 being less
important.
Healthcare
(out of 7)
Why did you locate to this area?
Rank
1
Workforce/work ethic, no opinion, Proximity
to markets (1x)
2
None (4x)
3
None (5x)
Lumber/Wood Products
(out of 13)
Why did you locate to this area?
Rank
1
Family Owned (6x)
2
Location (4x)
3
Proximity to markets (4x)
Diversified Manufacturing
(out of 40)
Why did you locate to this area?
Rank
1
Location (9x)
2
Workforce (9x)
3
None (9x)
**example: (13x) indicates how many times that option was selected under that ranking.
35. What are the top issues facing your business at this location? Please rank up to your top 3 options. 1 being the
most difficult 3 being less difficult.
Healthcare
(out of 7)
Top Issues Facing Your Business
Rank
1
Workforce (2x)
2
Competition, Economy, Cost of
healthcare, Building Improvements,
Workforce (1x)
3
Workforce (2x)
3
Competition (2x)
Industry Cluster Interview Questions
Summary of Interview Responses by Cluster
Page 25 of 36
Lumber/Wood Products
(out of 13)
Top Issues Facing Your Business
Rank
1
Cost of healthcare (3x)
2
Cost of healthcare (5x)
3
Economy (5x)
Diversified Manufacturing
(out of 40)
Top Issues Facing Your Business
Rank
1
Competition (9x)
2
Cost of healthcare (14x)
3
None (9x)
**example: (5x) indicates how many times that option was selected under that ranking.
36. Who are your main competitors? Where are they located?
Healthcare
(out of 12 responses)
Competitors
Competitors
Location (City, State)
various
1- PA (12x)
Lumber/Wood Products
(out of 33 responses)
Competitors
Competitors
Location (City, State)
various
1- PA (19x)
Diversified Manufacturing
(out of 89 responses)
Competitors
Competitors
Location (City, State)
various
1- PA (30x)
2- Germany (6x)
3- CA (tie) (4x)
3- NJ (tie) (4x)
Workforce:
37. Do you expect your employment to decline, grow, or remain status quo over the next 12 months?
Industry Cluster Interview Questions
Summary of Interview Responses by Cluster
Page 26 of 36
Healthcare
Employment
Growth
Number
% Percentage
of Total
Decline
0
0%
Growth
2
29%
Status Quo
5
71%
Total
7
100%
Lumber/Wood Products
Employment
Growth
Number
% Percentage
of Total
Decline
0
0%
Growth
6
46%
Status Quo
7
54%
Total
13
100%
Diversified Manufacturing
Employment
Growth
Number
% Percentage
of Total
Decline
2
5%
Growth
20
50%
Status Quo
18
45%
Total
40
100%
Healthcare Employment decline total = 0
Healthcare Employment growth total = 35
Lumber/Wood Products Employment decline total = 0
Lumber/Wood Products Employment growth total = 31
Diversified Manufacturing Employment decline total = 125
Diversified Manufacturing Employment growth total = 234
38. Which job categories do you expect to fill in the next 12 months?
More than 1 option could be selected for this question.
Healthcare
Top 3 job categories expected to be filled in
the next 12 months:
#1 Healthcare (4 responses)
#2 Management (tie) (2 responses)
#2 None (tie) (2 responses)
Lumber/Wood Products
Top 3 job categories expected to be filled in
the next 12 months:
#1 Production (6 responses)
#2 None (5 responses)
#2 Construction (2 responses)
Diversified Manufacturing
Industry Cluster Interview Questions
Summary of Interview Responses by Cluster
Page 27 of 36
Top 3 job categories expected to be filled in
the next 12 months:
#1 Production (16 responses)
#2 None (10 responses)
#2 Management (8 responses)
39. Which job categories do you find the most difficult to fill or retain? Please indicate (F) for fill and (R) for retain.
Please rank up to your top 3 options. 1 being the most difficult 3 being less difficult.
Healthcare
Top job most difficult to fill or retain:
#1 Healthcare (6 responses)
#2 None (3 responses)
#3 None (4 responses)
Lumber/Wood Products
Top job most difficult to fill or retain:
#1 Production (5 responses) (tied with none)
#2 None (9 responses)
#3 None (10 responses)
Diversified Manufacturing
Top job most difficult to fill or retain:
#1 None (11 responses)
#2 None (22 responses)
#3 None (24 responses)
**example: (16x) indicates how many times that option was selected under that ranking.
40. What job categories are crucial to the success of your firm?
Healthcare
(out of 7)
Top 3 job categories crucial to success of
firm:
#1 Healthcare (6 responses)
#2 Management (5 responses)
#3 Information Technology (3 responses)
Lumber/Wood Products
(out of 13)
Top 3 job categories crucial to success of
firm:
#1 Production (8 responses)
#2 Management (4 responses)
#3 None (4 responses)
Diversified Manufacturing
Industry Cluster Interview Questions
Summary of Interview Responses by Cluster
Page 28 of 36
(out of 40)
Top 3 job categories crucial to success of
firm:
#1 Management (17 responses)
#2 Production (10 responses)
#3 None (8 responses)
**example: (17x) indicates how many times that option was selected under that ranking.
41. Which skills are most lacking in this region?
Healthcare
(out of 7)
Skills most lacking in region- Ranked 1-3
#1 None (3 responses)
#2 None (3 responses)
#3 None (3 responses)
Lumber/Wood Products
(out of 13)
Skills most lacking in region- Ranked 1-3
#1 None (6 responses)
#2 None (8 responses)
#3 None (9 responses)
Diversified Manufacturing
(out of 40)
Skills most lacking in region- Ranked 1-3
#1 None (14 responses)
#2 None (19 responses)
#3 None (21 responses)
**example: (23x) indicates how many times that option was selected under that ranking.
42. What are the educational requirements for the majority of entry-level workers within your facility? (Multiple
answers are acceptable)
Healthcare
Educational Requirements for Entry Level Workers
Rank
1
High School Equivalent (4x)
2
Post High School (Tech) (3x)
3
Post High School (College) (2x)
Lumber/Wood Products
Educational Requirements for Entry Level Workers
Rank
1
High School Equivalent (5x)
2
Experience in the field, Previous Work
Industry Cluster Interview Questions
Summary of Interview Responses by Cluster
Page 29 of 36
Experience, Post High School Tech (1x)
3
Diversified Manufacturing
Educational Requirements for Entry Level Workers
Rank
1
High school or equivalent (25x)
2
Experience in the field (5x)
3
Post High School (tech) (4x)
43. Name up to three organizations you have used (or your employees have used) for education or training in the
past year (e.g. basic skills, IT, management, or vendor) and type of training. Are local educational and
training institutions fulfilling your firm's workforce development needs? What are their strengths? What are
their shortcomings?
Healthcare
( out of 17 responses)
Educational and Training Institutions
Name of Institution (ranking)
Type of Training
Strength (ranking)
Shortcoming
#1 Pennsylvania College of
Technology
#1 Nursing
#1 Programs/courses
(5x)
#1 None or N/A (10x)
#2 Penn State University
#2 Instructors (4x)
Lumber/Wood Products
(out of 22 responses)
Educational and Training Institutions
Name of Institution (ranking)
Type of Training
Strength (ranking)
Shortcoming
#1 None (4x)
#1 Woodworking training
(7x)
various
#1 None (8x)
#2 Penn College (3x)
#2 Computer Training (4x)
#2 Not enough
classes (2x)
#3 Keystone Central (2x)
Diversified Manufacturing
(out of 60 responses)
Educational and Training Institutions
Name of Institution (ranking)
Type of Training
Strength (ranking)
Shortcoming
#1 Pennsylvania College of Tech
(16x)
#1 Computers
#1 Courses/Programs/
Classes (18x)
#1 None (40x)
#2 Penn State University
(tied) (6x)
#2 West Branch (tied) (6x)
#2 Safety
#2 Instructors (8x)
Industry Cluster Interview Questions
Summary of Interview Responses by Cluster
Page 30 of 36
#3 South Hills (4x)
#3 Local/close
proximity(7x)
**example: (23x) indicates how many times that option was answered under that category.
Economic Development Resources:
44. Please indicate the regional economic development service providers you are aware of and used in
the region.
Technology:
Healthcare
Technology Resources
Aware and
used (%)
Aware and not
used (%)
Not aware
(%)
Ben Franklin
Technology Partners
0%
14%
86%
PennTAP
0%
14%
86%
Industrial Modernization
Center
14%
0%
86%
Other
0%
0%
0%
Lumber/Wood Products
Technology Resources
Aware and
used (%)
Aware and not
used (%)
Not aware
(%)
Ben Franklin
Technology Partners
23%
23%
54%
PennTAP
15%
15%
69%
Industrial Modernization
Center
15%
23%
62%
Other
PA Future
Connect, PA
Wednet
0%
0%
Diversified Manufacturing
Technology Resources
Aware and
used (%)
Aware and not
used (%)
Not aware
(%)
Ben Franklin
Technology Partners
25%
38%
38%
PennTAP
5%
42%
52%
Industrial Modernization
Center
25%
40%
35%
Other
0%
0%
0%
Financing:
Healthcare
Financing Resources
Aware and
used (%)
Aware and
not used
Not aware
(%)
Industry Cluster Interview Questions
Summary of Interview Responses by Cluster
Page 31 of 36
(%)
Industrial Development
Corporations (IDC)
14%
57%
29%
Chamber of Commerce
14%
86%
0%
Ben Franklin Technology
Partners
0%
14%
86%
Clinton County Revolving Loan
Fund (RLF)
0%
29%
71%
SEDA-Council of Governments
0%
71%
29%
Lock Haven Enterprise Zone
0%
29%
71%
Williamsport Enterprise Zone
14%
0%
86%
Other
0%
0%
0%
Lumber/Wood Products
Financing Resources
Aware and
used (%)
Aware and
not used
(%)
Not aware
(%)
Industrial Development
Corporations (IDC)
31%
46%
23%
Chamber of Commerce
46%
38%
15%
Ben Franklin Technology
Partners
8%
31%
62%
Clinton County Revolving Loan
Fund (RLF)
38%
23%
38%
SEDA-Council of Governments
38%
38%
23%
Lock Haven Enterprise Zone
0%
23%
77%
Williamsport Enterprise Zone
0%
15%
85%
Other
0%
0%
0%
Diversified Manufacturing
Financing Resources
Aware and
used (%)
Aware and
not used
(%)
Not aware
(%)
Industrial Development
Corporations (IDC)
38%
50%
12%
Chamber of Commerce
40%
50%
10%
Ben Franklin Technology
Partners
15%
42%
42%
Clinton County Revolving Loan
Fund (RLF)
20%
32%
48%
SEDA-Council of Governments
45%
48%
7%
Lock Haven Enterprise Zone
5%
25%
70%
Williamsport Enterprise Zone
0%
18%
82%
Other
0%
0%
0%
Marketing: (includes exporting and procurement activities)
Healthcare
Marketing Resources
Aware and
used (%)
Aware and
not used
(%)
Not aware
(%)
Chamber of Commerce
29%
43%
29%
Industry Cluster Interview Questions
Summary of Interview Responses by Cluster
Page 32 of 36
Small Business Development
Center
0%
57%
43%
SEDA-Council of Governments
0%
57%
43%
Other
0%
0%
0%
Lumber/Wood Products
Marketing Resources
Aware and
used (%)
Aware and
not used
(%)
Not aware
(%)
Chamber of Commerce
23%
38%
38%
Small Business Development
Center
0%
46%
54%
SEDA-Council of Governments
0%
77%
23%
Other
0%
0%
0%
Diversified Manufacturing
Marketing Resources
Aware and
used (%)
Aware and
not used
(%)
Not aware
(%)
Chamber of Commerce
20%
62%
18%
Small Business Development
Center
12%
60%
28%
SEDA-Council of Governments
35%
55%
10%
Other
0%
0%
0%
Manufacturing:
Healthcare
Manufacturing Resources
Aware and
used (%)
Aware and
not used
(%)
Not aware
(%)
Industrial Modernization Center
0%
14%
86%
West Branch Manufacturers
Association
0%
43%
57%
Small Business Development
Center
0%
43%
57%
PennTAP
0%
14%
86%
Other
0%
0%
0%
Lumber/Wood Products
Manufacturing Resources
Aware and
used (%)
Aware and
not used
(%)
Not aware
(%)
Industrial Modernization Center
15%
23%
62%
West Branch Manufacturers
Association
23%
0%
77%
Small Business Development
Center
8%
38%
54%
PennTAP
15%
23%
62%
Other
0%
0%
0%
Industry Cluster Interview Questions
Summary of Interview Responses by Cluster
Page 33 of 36
Diversified Manufacturing
Manufacturing Resources
Aware and
used (%)
Aware and
not used
(%)
Not aware
(%)
Industrial Modernization Center
25%
45%
30%
West Branch Manufacturers
Association
38%
32%
30%
Small Business Development
Center
5%
60%
35%
PennTAP
3%
42%
55%
Other
0%
0%
0%
Workforce:
Healthcare
Workforce Resources
Aware and
used (%)
Aware and
not used
(%)
Not aware
(%)
Central Pennsylvania Workforce
Development Corporation
29%
14%
57%
Career Link
57%
29%
14%
Pennsylvania College of
Technology
57%
29%
14%
Other
0%
0%
0%
Lumber/Wood Products
Workforce Resources
Aware and
used (%)
Aware and
not used
(%)
Not aware
(%)
Central Pennsylvania Workforce
Development Corporation
0%
15%
85%
Career Link
38%
46%
15%
Pennsylvania College of
Technology
46%
46%
23%
Other
0%
0%
0%
Diversified Manufacturing
Workforce Resources
Aware and
used (%)
Aware and
not used
(%)
Not aware
(%)
Central Pennsylvania Workforce
Development Corporation
7%
23%
70%
Career Link
55%
30%
15%
Pennsylvania College of
Technology
50%
40%
10%
Other
0%
0%
0%
Business Development:
Healthcare
Business Development
Aware and
Aware and
Not aware
Industry Cluster Interview Questions
Summary of Interview Responses by Cluster
Page 34 of 36
Resources
used (%)
not used
(%)
(%)
Small Business Development
Centers
0%
86%
14%
SEDA-Council of Governments
0%
71%
29%
Ben Franklin Technology
Partners
0%
29%
71%
Industrial Modernization Center
0%
14%
86%
Industrial Development
Corporation
14%
29%
57%
Chamber of Commerce
29%
57%
14%
City of Lock Haven Enterprise
Zone
0%
29%
71%
City of Williamsport Enterprise
Zone
0%
14%
86%
Other
0%
0%
0%
Lumber/Wood Products
Business Development
Resources
Aware and
used (%)
Aware and
not used
(%)
Not aware
(%)
Small Business Development
Centers
15%
38%
46%
SEDA-Council of Governments
23%
54%
23%
Ben Franklin Technology
Partners
15%
31%
54%
Industrial Modernization Center
15%
31%
54%
Industrial Development
Corporation
15%
46%
38%
Chamber of Commerce
23%
46%
31%
City of Lock Haven Enterprise
Zone
0%
31%
69%
City of Williamsport Enterprise
Zone
0%
8%
92%
Other
0%
0%
0%
Diversified Manufacturing
Business Development
Resources
Aware and
used (%)
Aware and
not used
(%)
Not aware
(%)
Small Business Development
Centers
25%
42%
32%
SEDA-Council of Governments
25%
60%
15%
Ben Franklin Technology
Partners
12%
45%
42%
Industrial Modernization Center
18%
50%
32%
Industrial Development
Corporation
18%
65%
18%
Chamber of Commerce
25%
68%
7%
City of Lock Haven Enterprise
Zone
0%
38%
62%
City of Williamsport Enterprise
Zone
0%
18%
82%
Industry Cluster Interview Questions
Summary of Interview Responses by Cluster
Page 35 of 36
Other
0%
0%
0%
45. Having completed this survey, would you say that your company is part of an industry cluster?
Healthcare
Pre-Survey
Industry Cluster
Question
Number
% Percentage
of Total
No
5
71%
Yes
2
29%
Maybe
0
0%
Total
7
100%
Lumber/Wood Products
Pre-Survey
Industry Cluster
Question
Number
% Percentage
of Total
No
7
54%
Yes
6
46%
Maybe
0
0%
Total
13
100%
Diversified Manufacturing
Pre-Survey
Industry Cluster
Question
Number
% Percentage
of Total
No
30
75%
Yes
9
23%
Maybe
1
2%
Total
40
100%
Healthcare
Post-Survey
Industry Cluster
Question
Number
% Percentage
of Total
Yes
4
57%
No
3
43%
Maybe
0
Not sure
0
Total
7
100%
Lumber/Wood Products
Post-Survey
Industry Cluster
Question
Number
% Percentage
of Total
Yes
8
61%
No
4
31%
Maybe
1
8%
Not sure
0
0%
Total
13
100%
Diversified Manufacturing
Post-Survey
Industry Cluster
Question
Number
% Percentage
of Total
Yes
22
55%
No
13
33%
Maybe
3
7%
Not sure
2
5%
Total
40
100%
46. Whether or not your company is an industry cluster, do you perceive being part of an industry
cluster as beneficial to your company?
Healthcare
Industry Cluster
Perception
Number
% Percentage
of Total
No
2
29%
Yes
4
57%
Maybe
1
14%
Not sure
0
0%
Total
7
100%
Lumber/Wood Products
Industry Cluster
Perception
Number
% Percentage
of Total
No
3
23%
Yes
8
62%
Industry Cluster Interview Questions
Summary of Interview Responses by Cluster
Page 36 of 36
Maybe
0
0%
Not sure
2
15%
Total
13
100%
Diversified Manufacturing
Industry Cluster
Perception
Number
% Percentage
of Total
No
8
20%
Yes
25
63%
Maybe
3
7%
Not sure
4
10%
Total
40
100%
47. Would you be willing to provide more detailed information on how your company functions as part
of a regional industry cluster?
Healthcare
Provide More
Info?
Number
% Percentage
of Total
Yes
6
86
No
1
14
Maybe
0
0
Total
7
100%
Lumber/Wood Products
Provide More
Info?
Number
% Percentage
of Total
Yes
8
62%
No
3
23%
Maybe
2
15%
Total
13
100%
Diversified Manufacturing
Provide More
Info?
Number
% Percentage
of Total
Yes
23
58%
No
13
32%
Maybe
4
10%
Total
0
100%